American Airlines suspends flights to Israel until April 2025

American Airlines has extended the suspension of flights to and from Israel until April 2025, citing regional instability. The decision, reported by Israeli public broadcaster KAN on Sunday, comes amid rising tensions due to the ongoing Israeli offensive in Gaza and recent attacks on major media outlets in the region.

Which airlines have stopped flights to Israel?

The suspension by American Airlines is part of a broader measure by international airlines in response to increased security risks.

• Major airlines such as Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, EasyJet, Ryanair, Lufthansa Group, Aegean Airlines, airBaltic, Air India, Air France-KLM, Cathay Pacific, Tarom, Vueling and ITA Airways have all suspended or diverted flights to Israel to avoid the affected airspace.
• Since August 7, 20 foreign airlines have suspended operations to and from Israel.

Why the vast majority of airlines stopped their flights

• Gaza War: The ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip has resulted in the deaths of nearly 40,100 people and the injuries of 92,600 others since October 7. Since the Gaza war began, there has been an increase in cross-border exchanges of fire between Hezbollah and the Israeli military, disrupting air and sea traffic throughout the region.
• Sensational assassinations: The situation has escalated following the assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh on July 31 in Tehran and senior Hezbollah commander Fouad Shukr on July 30 in Beirut.
• Retaliatory attacks: Both Iran and Hezbollah have accused Israel of the attacks, although Israel has neither confirmed nor denied involvement. In response, Israel has increased its military alert and anticipates possible retaliation from Iran and Hezbollah.

Israeli airlines make profit despite global flight suspensions

While most foreign airlines have suspended flights, El Al Israel Airlines continues to operate and profits from its quasi-monopoly position. The airline reported a nearly 150 percent increase in profits, attributed to the lack of competition caused by the withdrawal of foreign airlines.

However, El Al has come under criticism from both domestic and international customers, who accuse the airline of charging extortionate prices during the ongoing crisis.